Higby and Dottie are rescue whippets owned by day care services manager Grant Newton. 

They work up to five days a week in our clubs, where they provide a calming and normalising presence. As well as the tactile experience of stroking, the animals spark memories and group conversations. They bring much joy to those who once had the companionship of dogs but are now denied it through illness and advancing age. And just by being themselves, Higby and Dottie can help new members to gain confidence and integrate. Some members spend their first couple of sessions just talking to the dogs! 

There is a growing academic interest in the therapeutic benefits of animal-assisted activities in dementia care. University of Bath research fellow Caroline Hickman is working with our day club team to investigate how interaction with the dogs is supporting people to integrate with their environment and socially. Research project summary

Higby and Dottie often feature in our regular dayclub phototography sessions. The resulting photos are often treasured by families. To see more of these click here or sign up to our Facebook page where we post new photos regularly.

   

  
Video - Introducing Dottie

 

We are lucky to have a number of dogs who regularly spend time in the clubs - with their human servants - and welcome inquiries from owners of calm, patient animals.  If you think your dog may be suitable to join the team please email Grant.

Chris Stevens, who brings Bonnie and Harley in to spend time with members at our Mill Street Club, wrote about their experiences in Winter 2018 edition of Forever Hound.